How to Use Diatomaceous Earth as a Dewormer

Although there is much controversy over the use of diatomaceous earth (also known as DE) as a dewormer for animals, many people continue to do so to provide a nonchemical worming option for organic production. Diatomaceous earth kills parasites through the mechanical action of its sharp particle edges and therefore does not trigger chemical resistance in parasites like many of the currently approved chemical dewormers do. Diatomaceous earth has also been used successfully to rid animals of external parasites in addition to internal ones.

Things You'll Need

  • Food-grade diatomaceous earth
  • Feed containers
  • Measuring cup or spoon
  • Small plastic resealable bag
  • Notebook
  • Pen
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate a local supplier of food-grade diatomaceous earth and discuss your intended application with them, since they may have helpful information for the use of the product in your area. Verify that the diatomaceous earth you will be using has a fine, powdery consistency and is not caked with moisture, mold or other foreign substance. Store your diatomaceous earth in a waterproof container to avoid contamination with toxic substances.

    • 2

      Collect a fecal sample from the animals to be treated in a small, plastic, resealable bag. Have it analyzed by a veterinarian to establish a baseline parasite count. Record this baseline number, along with the date and animals tested in a notebook so that you will be able to review the results of using diatomaceous earth as a dewormer.

    • 3

      Decide how you will administer the diatomaceous earth to your animals; sprinkled over their feed is the most common method, although it is sometimes mixed in with loose, supplemental salt. Determine what parasite count level you will accept as an adequate reduction rate. Discuss this number with your veterinarian if you are unsure. Remember that in many species, there will always be some evidence of internal parasites, however, it is important for you to set your acceptable baseline so that you can make management decisions based on how well your choice of dewormer is working to achieve that level.

    • 4

      Begin to apply the diatomaceous earth to your animals' food at a rate of approximately one level tablespoon per hundred pounds of body weight. Encourage your animals to eat the diatomaceous earth by adding it to appealing treats such as a bit of molasses or other enticement, if necessary. Watch carefully to verify that each animal to be treated is receiving an adequate share of the diatomaceous earth supplement. Observe your animals when first giving them the diatomaceous earth to be sure that the gritty powder is not causing any problems with eating or swallowing. Offer water if at all possible when feeding the diatomaceous earth supplement.

    • 5

      Continue feeding the diatomaceous earth supplement daily for a week, then collect a new fecal sample and take it to be analyzed. Record this new parasite count in your notebook and evaluate whether to continue treatment to create further beneficial results or to discontinue treatment if you find it to be ineffective in containing or bringing down the parasite count. Add any changes you plan to make and any other comments in your notebook. Be aware that diatomaceous earth may not be as effective at bringing a heavy parasite load under control as it is in preventing an infestation from getting started.

    • 6

      Continue to provide the diatomaceous earth supplement to your animal as needed to bring parasite counts under control. Determine the interval at which you will retreat and retest, many animal experts use the product one month prior to reproduction and one month after, and as needed throughout the warmer months. Seek appropriate veterinary care if your animal does not respond positively to the use of diatomaceous earth as a dewormer, since heavy parasite infestations can be deadly if left untreated.